'Come home' appeal to doctor

The family of the missing children's doctor marked the first week of his disappearance yesterday by appealing for him to return.

Three days before his disappearance Dr Richard Stevens, 54, attended the graduation of his elder daughter, Helen, 27, at Manchester Metropolitan University.

"He was really chuffed for me," said Miss Stevens. "I had thought about so many careers but he never looked disappointed and always said 'so long as you are happy'. It was a really nice day. I just want him to come back."

Dr Stevens vanished within minutes of arriving for work at Royal Manchester Children's Hospital.

His son, Jonathan, 30, said it was totally unexpected that "such a normal guy, such a level-headed, straightforward-thinking individual" should have disappeared.

Mr Stevens' wife, Eirwen, with whom he had a minor tiff the day he went missing was too distressed to attend the press conference.

Her son said: "The message from my mum is that if anyone knows anything to contact the police and, for dad, just let us know that you are okay. We are just so worried."

Supt Frank Doyle, of Greater Manchester Police, said officers were investigating a number of reported sightings. "It appears that he may have taken it upon himself to go away," he said. "We are not in any fear for his safety."